Miami (OH) RedHawks' Best Chance Of First Win Of Season Could Come This Weekend vs. Kent State Golden Flashes

By Joseph Lisi

Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

The 2013 season has been a long one for the Miami (OH) RedHawks. On the year, the RedHawks are 0-9 and have lost by an average of 23.8 points per game. The opportunity to taste the rewards of their first victory is becoming slim with three games remaining on the schedule. Two of the three opponents are Buffalo and Ball State, teams with a combined record of 16-3 entering this weekend. However, the RedHawks’ best chance of victory could come this weekend when the team travels to face the Kent State Golden Flashes (2-7).

Miami (OH) has struggled to find the end zone this season. For the year, the RedHawks are averaging 10 points per game and are ranked 126th in the nation in scoring offense. Their offensive woes have been due to the lack of production from their skill players. The team is averaging 135.4 passing yards per game (118th in the country) and 92.7 rushing yards per game (115th in the nation).

In order to get the road upset, they must challenge a Kent State defense yielding 30.4 points per game.

Defensively, the RedHawks are giving up 33.9 points per game and have been hurt with their inability to stop opposing offense’s rushing attacks. The team is allowing 214.3 rushing yards per game and has been worn down by bigger offensive lines throughout the season. Miami (OH) is giving up 259.2 passing yards per game and has not been able to generate a pass rush with their defensive line (12 sacks in nine games).

Miami (OH) must be able to stop a Kent State offense that is averaging 18.1 points per game. The Golden Flashes are averaging 186.6 passing yards per game and are 78th in the nation in rushing offense (157.7 yards per game).

The RedHawks have been opportunistic in creating turnovers and are a +3 in turnover margin. Kent State has struggled with ball security this season and is a -6 in turnover margin.

Joseph Lisi is a writer for Rantsports.com, follow him on Twitter @GoForthe2, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.